Top 45 Slang For Abuse – Meaning & Usage

Abuse slang is unfortunately all too common in today’s society, with hurtful words and phrases being thrown around casually. It’s important to be aware of these terms and their impact. Our team has put together a list of the top slang for abuse to help you navigate these conversations and stand up against harmful language. Stay informed and empowered by checking out our comprehensive guide.

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1. Diss

To “diss” someone means to insult or put them down, often in a clever or witty way. It is a form of verbal abuse used to belittle or demean someone.

For example, “He dissed her outfit, saying it looked like she got dressed in the dark.”
In a heated argument, one person might say, “Don’t you dare diss me like that!”
A teenager might post on social media, “I can’t believe she dissed me in front of everyone at school.”

2. Roast

To “roast” someone is to publicly criticize or mock them, often in a humorous or playful way. It is a form of abuse that involves making jokes or sarcastic remarks at someone’s expense.

For instance, at a comedy roast, comedians take turns making fun of the guest of honor.
In a group of friends, one person might say, “I’m going to roast you so hard for that embarrassing moment.”
On social media, someone might post a picture and ask their followers to “roast” them in the comments.

3. Trash

To “trash” someone or something is to disrespect or criticize them in a harsh or negative manner. It is a form of abuse that involves devaluing or demeaning someone or something.

For example, “She trashed his artwork, calling it amateurish and unoriginal.”
In a heated argument, one person might say, “Stop trashing me like that!”
A music critic might write a scathing review, trashing an artist’s latest album.

4. Rip

To “rip” someone means to mock or criticize them harshly, often in a blunt or direct manner. It is a form of abuse that involves tearing someone down or pointing out their flaws.

For instance, “He ripped into her for making such a stupid mistake.”
In a disagreement, one person might say, “You’re just trying to rip me apart because you’re jealous.”
A comedian might rip on a heckler in the audience, making fun of their appearance or behavior.

5. Drag

To “drag” someone is to publicly criticize or humiliate them, often in a scathing or brutal manner. It is a form of abuse that involves exposing someone’s flaws or mistakes to ridicule.

For example, “She dragged him on social media for cheating on her.”
In a heated argument, one person might say, “I’m about to drag you through the mud.”
A celebrity might be dragged in the tabloids for their controversial actions or statements.

6. Slam

To “slam” someone means to criticize or insult them harshly. It is often used to describe verbal attacks or negative comments.

For example, “She slammed him for his poor performance.”
A person might say, “Don’t slam her just because you disagree with her opinion.”
In a heated argument, one might accuse the other of “slamming” them with hurtful words.

7. Bash

To “bash” someone means to attack them verbally or physically. It can refer to both verbal insults and physical assaults.

For instance, “He bashed her with hurtful words.”
A person might say, “Stop bashing him just because you don’t like his ideas.”
In a news article, it might be reported, “The celebrity was bashed by critics for her controversial statements.”

8. Flame

To “flame” someone means to insult or provoke them online, typically in a heated or aggressive manner. It is often used to describe negative interactions in online forums or social media.

For example, “He flamed the other user with a series of offensive comments.”
A person might say, “Don’t flame others just because you disagree with them.”
In a discussion about online etiquette, one might advise, “Avoid flame wars by staying respectful and constructive.”

9. Tear down

To “tear down” someone means to criticize or belittle them, often with the intention of undermining their credibility or self-esteem.

For instance, “She constantly tears down her coworkers in order to appear superior.”
A person might say, “Don’t tear down others just to boost your own ego.”
In a conversation about healthy relationships, one might emphasize the importance of not tearing each other down.

10. Put down

To “put down” someone means to belittle or insult them, often with the intention of making them feel inferior or inadequate.

For example, “He constantly puts down his friends in order to feel superior.”
A person might say, “Don’t put others down just to boost your own self-esteem.”
In a discussion about bullying, one might point out the harmful effects of constantly being put down.

11. Tear apart

To tear someone apart means to criticize them harshly or severely, often with the intention of completely breaking them down emotionally or mentally.

For example, “The teacher tore apart the student’s essay, pointing out every mistake.”
In a heated argument, one person might say, “Don’t make me tear you apart with my words.”
A movie critic might write, “The harsh reviews tore apart the actor’s performance.”

12. Cut down

To cut someone down means to belittle or insult them, often with the intention of undermining their confidence or self-esteem.

For instance, “She always cuts down her coworkers, making them feel inferior.”
In a disagreement, one person might say, “Instead of attacking my ideas, why do you always cut me down personally?”
A friend might offer support by saying, “Don’t let their words cut you down. You’re better than that.”

13. Knock

To knock someone means to criticize or speak negatively about them, often in a casual or informal manner.

For example, “He’s always knocking his neighbors, complaining about every little thing.”
During a discussion about a public figure, someone might say, “I’m not a fan of their work, but I won’t knock their talent.”
A gossip might say, “Let me knock some sense into you about what’s really going on.”

14. Berate

To berate someone means to scold or criticize them angrily and severely, often in a public or humiliating manner.

For instance, “The coach berated the player for making a mistake in front of the entire team.”
In a heated argument, one person might yell, “Stop berating me and listen to what I have to say!”
A boss might berate an employee for not meeting their expectations.

15. Cuss out

To cuss someone out means to use offensive language to insult or verbally attack them, often with the intention of causing emotional harm or provoking a reaction.

For example, “He cussed out the customer who was being rude to him.”
In a heated argument, one person might say, “If you don’t back off, I’m going to cuss you out.”
A teenager might vent, “I got so angry at my parents that I cussed them out.”

16. Trash talk

Trash talk refers to insulting or derogatory comments made about someone or something. It is often used in competitive settings or to provoke a reaction from others.

For example, during a basketball game, a player might trash talk their opponent by saying, “You can’t guard me, you’re trash!”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “All you do is talk trash, you never have anything meaningful to say.”
On social media, users might engage in trash talk by commenting, “Your opinion is garbage, get out of here.”

17. Rip into

To rip into someone means to criticize them harshly or attack them verbally. It often involves expressing anger or frustration towards the person.

For instance, during a debate, one person might rip into their opponent by saying, “Your argument is completely flawed, and you have no idea what you’re talking about.”
In a review of a movie, a critic might write, “The director’s choices were terrible, and I have to rip into the film for its lack of originality.”
In a heated argument, one person might rip into the other by saying, “You always disappoint me, and I can’t believe I ever trusted you.”

18. Drag through the mud

To drag someone through the mud means to slander or publicly criticize them. It involves tarnishing their reputation or character by spreading negative information or rumors.

For example, during a political campaign, one candidate might try to drag their opponent through the mud by spreading false information about them.
In a social setting, someone might say, “I can’t believe she would drag her friend through the mud like that, spreading rumors about her.”
On social media, users might engage in dragging someone through the mud by commenting, “This person is a fraud, let’s expose them for who they really are.”

19. Bully

Bully refers to someone who intimidates or harms others, often through physical or verbal aggression. It involves exerting power or control over another person.

For instance, in a school setting, a bully might physically or verbally harass their classmates.
In a workplace, someone might be labeled a bully if they consistently belittle or demean their colleagues.
On social media, users might engage in bullying by sending threatening or derogatory messages to others.

20. Harass

To harass someone means to persistently bother or intimidate them. It involves unwanted or aggressive behavior that causes distress or discomfort to the person.

For example, in a workplace, someone might be accused of harassing their coworker by making unwanted advances or comments.
In a public setting, someone might harass another person by following them or repeatedly contacting them against their wishes.
On social media, users might engage in harassment by constantly sending hateful or threatening messages to someone.

21. Belittle

To belittle someone means to make them feel small, unimportant, or inferior. It involves undermining their self-esteem or confidence through derogatory comments or actions.

For example, a bully might belittle their victim by saying, “You’re so stupid, you’ll never amount to anything.”
In a toxic relationship, one partner might constantly belittle the other, saying things like, “You’re lucky to have me, no one else would want you.”
A supervisor at work might belittle their employee by dismissing their ideas and saying, “That’s a dumb suggestion, we’re not going to waste time on it.”

22. Gaslight

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the abuser makes the victim doubt their own sanity or perception of reality. It involves distorting the truth, denying facts, and making the victim question their memory or judgment.

For instance, an abuser might say, “You’re just imagining things, I never said that.”
In a gaslighting situation, the victim might start to doubt their own memory and say, “I could have sworn I locked the door, but maybe I didn’t.”
A person who realizes they’re being gaslighted might seek support from others and say, “I feel like I’m going crazy, but my partner keeps manipulating me and making me doubt myself.”

23. Mistreat

To mistreat someone means to treat them in an unfair, cruel, or harmful way. It involves acting with disregard for their well-being or rights, often causing physical, emotional, or psychological harm.

For example, an abusive parent might mistreat their child by constantly berating them and withholding love or affection.
In a workplace, a boss might mistreat their employees by overworking them, belittling their efforts, or not providing a safe working environment.
A person who has been mistreated might seek help and say, “I can’t continue living like this, I need to escape the person who mistreats me.”

24. Dominate

To dominate someone means to exert control or power over them, often in an oppressive or abusive manner. It involves gaining authority and influence over another person, limiting their autonomy and freedom.

For instance, an abusive partner might dominate their significant other by making all the decisions, isolating them from friends and family, and using physical or emotional intimidation.
In a toxic friendship, one person might dominate the other by constantly putting them down, manipulating their actions, and making them feel inferior.
A person who realizes they are being dominated might seek support and say, “I can’t live under someone’s control anymore, I need to break free and regain my independence.”

25. Degrade

To degrade someone means to diminish their worth, value, or dignity. It involves treating them with disrespect, humiliating them, or making them feel inferior.

For example, a bully might degrade their victim by mocking their appearance, intelligence, or abilities.
In a toxic relationship, one partner might degrade the other by constantly criticizing them, insulting them, and making them feel unworthy of love or respect.
A person who has been degraded might seek help and say, “I can’t continue living like this, I deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.”

26. Insult

To insult someone is to say or do something that is intended to hurt or offend them. It often involves making derogatory remarks or belittling someone’s qualities or abilities.

For example, “He insulted her by calling her stupid.”
In an argument, one person might say, “That was a low blow. You really know how to insult someone.”
A comedian might use insults as part of their act, saying, “I like to insult myself before anyone else can.”

27. Humiliate

To humiliate someone is to make them feel embarrassed, ashamed, or degraded, often in front of others. It involves intentionally causing someone to lose their dignity or self-respect.

For instance, “She humiliated him by revealing his deepest secrets.”
In a bullying scenario, one person might say, “They humiliate their victims to assert power.”
A public figure might experience humiliation when their private actions are exposed, leading to comments like, “The scandal humiliated him and ruined his reputation.”

28. Coerce

To coerce someone is to use threats, intimidation, or manipulation to make them do something against their will. It involves exerting pressure or control over someone in order to get them to comply.

For example, “He coerced her into signing the contract.”
In a discussion about abusive relationships, one might say, “The abuser uses coercion to maintain control over their partner.”
A person might warn others, “Be aware of manipulative individuals who try to coerce you into doing things you don’t want to do.”

29. Intimidate

To intimidate someone is to make them feel afraid or threatened, often through aggressive or menacing behavior. It involves instilling fear in order to gain power or control over someone.

For instance, “He intimidated his opponents with his aggressive stance.”
In a workplace setting, one might say, “Bullying tactics are often used to intimidate coworkers.”
A person might share their experience, saying, “I felt intimidated by the group of strangers who surrounded me.”

30. Demean

To demean someone is to degrade or belittle their worth, value, or dignity. It involves treating someone as if they are inferior or less important.

For example, “She demeaned him by mocking his appearance.”
In a conversation about toxic relationships, one might say, “The abuser constantly demeans their partner to maintain control.”
A person might express their frustration, saying, “It’s disheartening when others demean your achievements and dismiss your efforts.”

31. Oppress

To oppress means to suppress or dominate someone or a group of people, often through the use of power or authority.

For example, “The dictator oppressed the citizens, denying them their basic human rights.”
In a discussion about social justice, someone might say, “We must fight against systems that oppress marginalized communities.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “I was oppressed by my abusive partner for years before finding the strength to leave.”

32. Exploit

To exploit means to take advantage of someone or something for personal gain, often in a manipulative or unfair manner.

For instance, “The company exploited its workers by paying them below minimum wage.”
In a conversation about online privacy, one might say, “We must be aware of how our personal data is being exploited by tech companies.”
A person discussing relationships might advise, “Don’t let someone exploit your kindness and generosity.”

33. Victimize

To victimize means to treat someone as a victim, often by subjecting them to harm, mistreatment, or abuse.

For example, “The bully victimized his classmates, targeting them with verbal and physical abuse.”
In a discussion about crime, someone might say, “We need to support and protect the victims of violence and ensure they receive justice.”
A person reflecting on their experiences might say, “I was victimized by my former employer, who created a hostile work environment.”

34. Control

To control means to exercise power or authority over someone or something, often in a manipulative or oppressive manner.

For instance, “The abuser used control tactics to isolate their partner from friends and family.”
In a conversation about government surveillance, one might say, “We need to ensure our privacy and not allow those in power to control our lives.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I’ve learned to let go of the need to control everything and embrace uncertainty.”

35. Manipulate

To manipulate means to influence or control others, often through deceptive or dishonest tactics.

For example, “The cult leader manipulated his followers, exploiting their vulnerabilities for personal gain.”
In a discussion about emotional abuse, someone might say, “An abuser will often manipulate their victim’s emotions to maintain power and control.”
A person reflecting on a toxic relationship might say, “I was constantly manipulated by my ex-partner, who used guilt and gaslighting to keep me trapped.”

36. Abuse

Abuse refers to any harmful or hurtful behavior towards another person. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or verbal abuse. It is important to recognize and address abuse to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals.

For example, “She suffered years of abuse at the hands of her partner.”
A concerned friend might say, “If you’re experiencing abuse, you should reach out for help.”
A support group might discuss strategies for healing from past abuse experiences.

37. Assault

Assault refers to the act of physically attacking or causing harm to another person. It involves intentional physical contact without the person’s consent. Assault can result in serious injuries and legal consequences.

For instance, “He was charged with assault after punching someone in a bar fight.”
A news article might report, “The victim suffered severe injuries in the assault.”
A self-defense instructor might teach techniques to protect oneself from an assault.

38. Mock

Mocking involves teasing or ridiculing someone in a hurtful or derogatory manner. It is a form of emotional abuse that can damage a person’s self-esteem and emotional well-being.

For example, “They mocked him for his appearance, causing him to feel ashamed.”
A parent might tell their child, “It is never okay to mock or make fun of someone.”
A teacher might address a student who is mocking their classmates, saying, “Mocking others is hurtful and disrespectful.”

39. Taunt

Taunting involves provoking or teasing someone in a way that is intended to upset or annoy them. It is a form of emotional abuse that can cause distress and harm to a person’s mental well-being.

For instance, “He taunted his opponent during the game, trying to throw them off their game.”
A sibling might taunt their brother by saying, “You’ll never be as good as me.”
A coach might address a player who is taunting the opposing team, saying, “Taunting is unsportsmanlike behavior and will not be tolerated.”

40. Torment

Torment refers to causing severe suffering or distress to another person. It involves intentionally inflicting pain, whether physical or emotional, on someone else. Torment is a form of abuse that can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being.

For example, “She endured years of torment from her classmates, which affected her self-esteem.”
A therapist might help a client heal from past torment, saying, “You deserve to live a life free from torment.”
A support group might discuss coping strategies for dealing with ongoing torment.

41. Persecute

Persecution refers to the act of harassing or oppressing someone persistently, often due to their race, religion, or political beliefs. It involves subjecting someone to unfair treatment, discrimination, or abuse.

For example, “The government persecuted members of the religious minority for their beliefs.”
In a discussion about social justice, someone might say, “We must fight against the persecution of marginalized communities.”
A news article might report, “The activist was persecuted for speaking out against the oppressive regime.”

42. Slander

Slander is a form of verbal abuse that involves making false spoken statements about someone with the intent to damage their reputation. It is a form of defamation that can harm a person’s personal or professional life.

For instance, “He slandered her by spreading false rumors about her.”
In a legal context, someone might say, “She filed a lawsuit against him for slander.”
A person discussing the impact of slander might argue, “False accusations can have serious consequences and should not be taken lightly.”

43. Censure

Censure refers to the act of expressing severe disapproval or criticism towards someone or something. It is a way to publicly condemn or rebuke someone’s actions or behavior.

For example, “The committee voted to censure the politician for his unethical conduct.”
In a debate about accountability, someone might say, “It’s important to censure individuals who abuse their power.”
A news article might report, “The international community issued a statement censuring the government’s human rights violations.”

44. Vilify

Vilify is a term used to describe the act of spreading negative and often false information about someone with the intention of damaging their reputation. It involves defaming or speaking ill of someone in a harmful and malicious way.

For instance, “He vilified his ex-partner by spreading false accusations about them.”
In a discussion about online harassment, someone might say, “People should not use social media platforms to vilify others.”
A person discussing the impact of vilification might argue, “Spreading false information can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life and well-being.”

45. Denigrate

Denigrate is a term used to describe the act of unfairly criticizing or belittling someone, often with the intention of damaging their reputation. It involves making derogatory or negative comments about someone in order to diminish their worth or credibility.

For example, “He denigrated his colleague’s work in front of their superiors.”
In a discussion about workplace bullying, someone might say, “It’s important to create a supportive environment and not denigrate our colleagues.”
A news article might report, “The politician faced backlash for denigrating his opponent during the debate.”